Interpretive Summary: Protein p40 (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) is a health-promoting protein found in dairy products such as yogurt and cheese which may prevent or aid in the treatment of inflammation of the colon (colitis). Oral administration of p40, though, is not possible because it is destroyed in the acidic environment of the stomach and by proteases in the small intestine. ARS scientists, Wyndmoor, PA, developed a method to encapsulate p40 in pectin/zein hydrogel beads to protect it in the gastrointestinal environment. The hydrogel beads were used to administer p40 to the colon of mice so that scientists could study how p40 exerts its protective benefits in the colon. The knowledge gained will promote the use of p40 and the application of pectin/zein hydrogel beads in the delivery of health-promoting proteins.